As of March 1, Mike and Kathy are Wycliffe Retired Members. Mike served in Land Transportation at JAARS, teaching and training in 4WD and motorcycles. He also carried the role of overseas vehicle consultant, as well as servicing many JAARS missionary vehicles. Many looked to him as the lead mechanic/consultant for all these things.
In 2021, Covid increased the need for video conference technology and many rooms at JAARS were outfitted with new "hybrid" technology, which met the needs for in-person, global, and virtual conferences. Though a musician and worship music leader, Kathy worked closely with the team who installed this equipment. She then began to function as their coordinator. She continued to coordinate the tech team who staff and maintain these training rooms, including the sound and media for the Auditorium and sound production for JAARS Day. She also managed the worship music licensing for the JAARS Center.
Mike and Kathy's focus during their retirement will be on teaching and discipleship of new and growing believers in their church. Kathy continues to serve in music as a choir member and musician. She will also begin writing stories of their journey of a sudden call to missions during their "forty-something" years, along with their three teenagers. She will publish her writing on their blogsite: https://mikeandkathysmith.com/
Mike and Kathy also have seven grandchildren in the area. They are regularly involved with them.
Americas
Mike, Land Transportation Specialist, Retired; Kathy, Audio-Video Team Lead and Music Manager, Retired
Katie, Karen, Sean
Wycliffe establishes a Ministry Budget for its members to reflect recurring expenses related to family factors and their geographic location of service. Giving to Wycliffe directly impacts members' ability to begin and remain in their assignment.
This monthly budget covers ministry-related expenses, insurance and retirement, social security and taxes, and Wycliffe administrative costs. The remainder is what the members receive as "take-home pay" for their daily living expenses.